Clarence Pier

Entertainment, Southsea

Clarence Pier is a seafront amusement park at the western end of Southsea's esplanade, near the hovercraft terminal. Originally opened in 1861 as a landing stage for paddle steamers, the pier evolved into a traditional seaside entertainment venue with rides, arcades, and food outlets. It was heavily damaged by wartime bombing and rebuilt in the 1950s and 1960s with indoor amusements, outdoor rides, and a funfair. Despite periodic concerns about its future, Clarence Pier continues to operate and is a busy attraction during school holidays and summer weekends. The pier sits adjacent to the Hovertravel terminal and is one of the first things visitors see when arriving from the Isle of Wight.